TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

DEVOTIONAL

by Elder Chris Beltran

The Bible did not tell us what the believers were praying for—probably praying for Peter’s strength to face his execution with courage. They were not expecting him to be freed, although it had happened before with the apostles, because when he was knocking at the door, the believers could not believe what the servant girl was telling them. It was Peter knocking! Yes, they were praying but not expecting to get an answer from God, His way. God answers prayer, but He is under no obligation to answer our prayers our way.

What happened to King Herod? In verse 23b, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. What happened to the church? Verse 24 states, “but the word of God continued to spread and flourish.” Our God is way bigger than our difficult circumstances, and as we pray without ceasing, expect Him to answer. Like Peter, who could sleep amid his uncertainty, God will give us the peace that transcends all understanding. Trust His heart.

These were John Stott’s words when he summarised Acts 12: “Acts 12 opens with James dead, Peter imprisoned, and Herod seemingly triumphing. It closes with Herod dead, Peter free, and the word of God triumphing.”’

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts filled with gratitude and awe at Your power and sovereignty. Thank You for showing us through the story of Peter’s miraculous deliverance and Herod’s downfall that You are the one who answers prayers and brings about triumph in the face of adversity. Help us to trust Your heart and have unwavering faith as we pray and seek Your will in all circumstances. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.